Q: Forms to respond to a Trustee's First and Final Application to approve Chapter 7 compensation to Trustee's Counsel.

A: I understand you're in a difficult situation regarding your employer's Chapter 7 bankruptcy and the Trustee's handling of your wage claim. Here's some guidance on how you might proceed:

1. Forms to respond:

There isn't a specific standardized form for objecting to a Trustee's fee application. Generally, you would file a written objection with the bankruptcy court. This is typically done through a document called a "Motion to Object" or "Opposition to Trustee's Application for Compensation."

2. Steps you can take:

a) Review the Trustee's application: Obtain a copy of the Trustee's fee application from the bankruptcy court to understand their justification for the fees.

b) Draft your objection: Your objection should explain why you believe the fees are unreasonable, highlighting issues like:

- Lack of proper notice to you as a creditor

- Failure to consider all of the employer's assets

- The discrepancy between your $300,000 claim and the $140,000 settlement

- Your existing lien with the Secretary of State

c) File with the court: Submit your objection to the bankruptcy court where the case is being heard. There may be a filing fee, but you can request a fee waiver if needed.

d) Serve notice: Ensure copies of your objection are sent to the Trustee, their counsel, and other interested parties as required by local court rules.

3. Additional considerations:

- Time sensitivity: Act quickly, as there are often strict deadlines for objections in bankruptcy proceedings.

- Legal assistance: Given the complexity of bankruptcy law, it would be beneficial to consult with a bankruptcy attorney, even if just for a review of your objection before filing.

- Proof of claim: Ensure you've filed a proper proof of claim in the bankruptcy case for your wage claim if you haven't already.

- State labor department: Inform the California Labor Department about this situation, as they may be able to provide additional support or guidance.

Remember, while you can file an objection even after missing the initial deadline, the court will have discretion on whether to consider it. Explain in your filing why you're submitting late (lack of proper notice) and request that the court consider your objection despite the delay.